Consider These Tips to Reduce Bruising After Facelift Surgery

More and more men and women are getting cosmetic surgery to reduce signs of aging and look more youthful. Facelifts are an effective way to address wrinkles and folds, sagging jowls, and loose skin caused by aging or weight loss. A facelift can also highlight cheekbones and redefine the jawline and neck. Though it was once reserved for those 60 and older, it’s reported that even younger people are getting a facelift in NYC. While the procedure delivers dramatic results, many prospective patients frequently express concerns about the bruising it may cause. Let’s see why facelifts cause bruising and what you can do to manage it.

Why Bruising Occurs

Facelifts, like all surgeries, involve incisions and tissue manipulation, which can damage small blood vessels, causing bleeding under the skin. After a facelift, it’s common to see bruises around the eyelids, cheeks, and neck, appearing in colors like yellow, green, purple, blue, or black, and they typically lighten as they heal. Swelling occurs from fluid buildup, a normal response to surgery that supports the healing process.

Bruising is a normal part of facelift recovery and typically doesn’t signal any issues. It’s not viewed as a complication and is also common after mini-facelifts. The good news is that there are steps you can take to minimize or even prevent bruising.

Ways to Reduce Bruising after Facelift Surgery

• Follow post-operative Instructions. Adhere strictly to your surgeon’s guidelines regarding care and activity restrictions. Optimize health and blood pressure well in advance of the surgery.
  
  Avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for at least a few weeks to reduce strain on the healing areas.
• Pay attention to the medications you take before the procedure as certain drugs can interfere with your recovery. Avoid blood thinners such as aspirin or ibuprofen, unless prescribed by your physician. Ask your surgeon to give you a list of medications, vitamins and supplements to avoid in the preoperative
• Avoid sleeping on your side or face for at least four weeks following your facelift surgery. Surgeons recommend elevating the head when lying down using extra pillows or a wedge. This can reduce swelling.
• Using cool compresses may be recommended to alleviate discomfort and speed up recovery. Apply ice packs to the affected areas for the first 48 hours. This can help minimize swelling and bruising.
• Don’t smoke for several weeks before and after surgery. Smoking slows wound healing and increases risk of post-surgical complications.
• Avoid drinking alcohol both before and after the procedure as it can open the blood vessels and aggravate bruising.
• Eat a healthy diet. Include foods rich in vitamins C and K, such as leafy greens and citrus fruits, which can promote healing.
• Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water to help your body heal and reduce swelling.
• Try a gentle massage if approved by your surgeon. Gentle massage around the bruised area can promote circulation and healing.

When Bruising Is a Concern

If you experience intense pain, swelling, or bruising that worsens over time, you might have a hematoma, which is blood pooling under the skin and causing pressure.

Also, if you have severe pain on just one side of your face, it’s important to inform your surgeon. Remember, bruises don’t always appear symmetrically. For instance, you might have a bruise on one cheek but not the other, even if both cheeks were treated the same way during a facelift.

While a facelift in NYC is performed using advanced techniques, bruising is a common side effect. The skills and experience of the surgeon also matter when it comes to recovering smoothly after any cosmetic surgical procedure. When the procedure is performed by an experienced and skilled plastic surgeon, you can expect a safe and comfortable treatment experience.

Take the first step towards a refreshed you!

Book your consultation for a facelift today!